Comparison of the Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Bone Allograft for Alveolar Ridge Preservation after Tooth Extraction: A Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES: Bone remodeling after tooth extraction results in decreased ridge volume and complicates implant placement. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a rich source of autogenous cytokines and growth factors; it has been proven to effectively improve soft tissue healing and hard tissue regeneration. This study sought to compare the clinical application of freeze-dried bone allografts (FDBA) and PRF for alveolar ridge preservation after tooth extraction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on 32 patients presenting for the extraction of hopeless non-molar teeth. The teeth were extracted with minimal trauma, and the samples were randomly divided into two groups (n=16). Tooth sockets were filled with either FDBA or PRF (prepared using 10cc of the patient’s blood). Bone regeneration was assessed by evaluating changes in horizontal and vertical bone dimensions after 12 weeks (the time of implant placement) using an acrylic stent fabricated before tooth extraction and a periodontal probe. The results were compared by repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA; P<0.05). RESULTS: Ridge width showed a significant reduction compared to the baseline in both groups (P=0.001); ridge height changes were not significant (P>0.05). The evaluated groups did not show any significant difference in height/width changes (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The results showed an acceptable efficacy for PRF without graft materials in alveolar ridge preservation. This material is cost-effective and could be easily prepared. PRF application in extraction sockets yielded similar results to FDBA.